We’ve all probably seen some animation about how an internal combustion engine works. Usually it’s when we don’t care and we just want permission to take the car keys.

But somehow, seeing the real thing happen in slow motion, and right in front of your eyes — it’s a different thing.

We were afraid that this video would be a little bit too long, but we definitely felt that it was worth the time. We probably ran the view count up by a few, watching it over and over.

We’re always drawn to Maker Videos, and we expect to get something like that out of the next San Jose 48 Hour Film Project. It looks like the competition will run in April and the movies will be screened for audiences in late April and May.

Your challenge here (if you choose to accept it,) is to watch this video without looking at the time shuttle. Also, find yourself if you can, in this societal morality play.

Short filmmakers around the world use the opportunity of the 48 Hour Film Project to focus and showcase their talents. The City Winners from over 120 cities worldwide gather for Filmapalooza to screen their work and to meet other filmmakers and the event producers.

By now, most of us who are paying attention know that the traditional mercator projection is quite inaccurate when used for the world map. But did you know how inaccurate it is?

Take a look at this enlightening (and delightful) journey around the world. You may have a moment of deja-vu when the narrator lapses into an homage to Yakko Warner’s iconic “Nations of the World” rap.

We think a student of the world could spend several hours just following the clues and links stuffed into that fast-moving piece.

Although we hope cartographers and historians will do their best to tell the truth, storytellers and narrative filmmakers are not expected to observe that restriction. That’s why we’re glad to know that San Francisco independent filmmakers are setting out today to create a new crop of short films as part of the 48 Hour Film Project.

You can learn more at their Facebook page, or just subscribe to this blog and we’ll be sure to remind you when the premiere screenings and awards show are announced.

This optical illusion designed by Kokichi Sugihara was selected as a finalist in the Best Illusion of the Year competition. We are reminded that our perception is fragile, its connection to reality tenuous.

We all know that cooking is both a science and an art. In fact, maybe most art is a science and an art.

This clip brings the both into focus as we see how to sear the surface of a good steak.

Okay, Now we’re hungry!

Hey just a reminder YouTubers and filmmakers. There’s still a chance to get the Early Bird rate for registration in the San Francisco 48 Hour Film Project. It’s a great way for you to get to tell your own stories.